Basilica of Bom Jesu

This is one of the most important churches in Old Goa. Built in 1602 the church is a church in terms of Christian legacy and is a popular tourist destination and pilgrimage site. Dedicated to the child Jesus that is enshrined above the main altar just before the Statue of the great Jesuit founder St. Ignatius of Loyola.  This is one of the first minor cathedrals in India. Constructed in Baroque style the church is adorned with Golden wood carving and phylacteries and the church is adorned with three magnificent altars apart from the center high altar. The second altar to the right of the church is named after the Great Saint Francis Xavier whose incorrupt mortal remains are preserved in air tight silver casket. The exposition of the saint’s coffin happens once in every ten years. Believers and tourists alike come and kneel and pray before holy altar and pray for three graces.



The saint is also revered for his power of healing. The church also exhibits distinctive Corinthian. In the presbytery area of the church there is a collection of artifacts like the vestments used by the saint, a golden rose from Rome, some pictures and paintings of erst while popes and a whole size portrait of the body of the saint. Above the presbytery is a museum open for the public that has painting depicting the life of the saint and close to 30 wooden statues of Saints collected from all churches in Goa and a neo modern exhibit. Inside the vicinity there is also an art and sound show that happens on every Tuesday of the week. There is also a wonderful garden that can be visited by tourists.